The Ultimate Guide to the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show in Ketchikan

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When docking in Ketchikan for the day on our Alaskan Cruise, we knew exactly what we wanted to see. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show!

It’s by far the most popular show in Kethcikan and often sells out… so buy your tickets in advance! When something is that popular, you have to wonder if it’s worth it.

Since we were traveling with kids and older adults, we figured it would be a great activity our entire family could partake in. I also loved the fact that it isn’t super long, so we were able to see the show and still have time for a zip-lining excursion too.

About the Show

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show is a thrilling competition that showcases extraordinary skill and immense strength. This captivating event brings to life the storied logging history of southeast Alaska, featuring awe-inspiring demonstrations of power and agility.

From the moment the show begins, you’ll be immersed in the Alaskan Axe-tion, witnessing real ESPN lumberjack athletes perform feats that combine skill and strength in a way that is both entertaining and educational.

Whether you’re marveling at the precision of an axe throw or the sheer power of a chainsaw, the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show offers a unique and unforgettable experience that truly captures the spirit of Alaska.

The Significance of The Lumberjack Show

Ketchikan is more than just a stop on your Alaskan cruise. It’s a vibrant and historical part of Alaska and part of the Tongass National Forest.

Known as a recreational hotspot, Ketchikan is filled with lots of water activities like kayaking and fishing, with tumbling waterfalls and flowing rivers.

Because of its location, Ketchikan became famous for its fishing, and by the early 1930s, there were 13 canneries in Ketchikan that packed over 1.5 million cases of salmon a year. Needless to say, salmon fishing is a popular activity for cruisegoers here!

What Ketchikan is known for even more is its world-famous Lumberjack Show. The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show brings to life the stories of logging history and features awe-inspiring demonstrations of power and agility with real-life Lumberjacks!

These lumberjacks are truly talented and perform in 12 different athletic events that utilize seven-pound axes, six-foot razor-sharp saws, tree climbing gaffs, and chainsaws.

Book Your Lumberjack Experience HERE!

What to Expect at the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

From start to finish, the Lumberjack show was really exciting and was fun to watch! As soon as you take your seats, the Lumberjacks come out and start introducing themselves while running around and performing.

They very quickly jump into each activity as well as different competitions that involve the audience. The show is a mixture of really funny moments and jaw-dropping events. Not to mention the lumberjacks are fun to look at for the moms!

Some things you’ll see during the show:

Log rolling
Axe throwing
Climbing poles

There is also a lot of audience participation. Some events that little kids can join and some harder events like axe throwing for the adults. Even without participating, the Lumberjack Show is fun and entertaining.

Show Highlights

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show features a variety of exciting events that will keep you on the edge of your seat:

Ax Throwing Precision: Watch in awe as lumberjacks demonstrate incredible accuracy, hurling axes through the air to hit the bullseye with pinpoint precision.
Chainsaw Mastery: Feel the roar of chainsaws fill the arena as competitors carve intricate designs in mere minutes, showcasing both raw power and artistic talent.
Log Rolling Duel: This event is a test of balance and agility, with two lumberjacks facing off on a floating log, spinning it with their feet to dislodge their opponent in a thrilling duel.
Wooden Pole Climbing Race: Hold your breath as lumberjacks race to the top of towering poles, scaling these heights with astonishing speed and agility.
Springboard Chop: In this event, lumberjacks use springboards to chop through high logs, demonstrating strategy, balance, and chopping prowess.
Team Relay: The show culminates in a team relay that combines several skills, showcasing the camaraderie and competitive spirit of the participants.

Each event is designed to highlight the incredible talents of the lumberjacks, making the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show a must-see attraction in Ketchikan.

Planning Your Visit

Show Times: The show is only an hour long. Which was perfect timing for us. We picked the earliest time we could so we could see the show as soon as we got off the ship, and had plenty of time to go do other activities as well.

Ticket pricing and purchasing options: You can purchase tickets directly through their website, which is what I recommend. Adult tickets are $43 per person and only $23 for kids. They also have packages you can purchase that combine dining and the show.

Location and accessibility in Ketchikan: The Great Alaskan Lumberjack is located literally steps from the dock. So, as soon as you get off the ship, you just walk right over. It’s a very easy walk that only takes a few minutes. It’s also very close to downtown Ketchikan and Creek Street, as well as all the shops and dining in Ketchikan.

Nearby attractions and activities for visitors: Visit Creek Street, just steps away from the Lumberjack show and cruise ship docks. Or go on a walking tour of all the totem poles in the area. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants that line the main road of Ketchikan.

Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Experience

Best times to visit for an optimal experience: I personally think you should book your tickets for early in the day, as soon as you get off the ship. That way, you have plenty of time to go on an excursion or see the sights around Ketchikan. And even though you’re in Alaska, it can get pretty warm there. The Lumberjack show is outdoors without covering. So if it gets hot in the afternoon, you’ll be sitting out in the sun.

What to bring and wear: The show will not allow you to bring in any food or drink, but they did let us bring in a bottle of water. You can purchase snacks and drinks at the show if you need to! I would bring a hat or sunscreen as you might be sitting out in the sun, and it can get warm during the summer months. Otherwise, you dont need to bring anything special as the show is only an hour long.

Tips for engaging with the show: If you want to participate in the Lumberjack show, then try to get seats up front! They will often ask for volunteers. So make sure you stand up and wave your arm when asked!

Is the Lumberjack Show in Alaska worth it?

One hundred percent, I would say it is definitely worth it! Compared to other shows and excursions, it’s pretty affordable. It doesn’t take long so it won’t take up your entire day. And it’s great for the entire family. Kids loved it, adults loved it, and even the grandparents had a great time!

Tips for Visiting Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a charming town in Alaska with a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Explore the Town’s Natural Beauty: Ketchikan is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including the Tongass Narrows and the surrounding mountains. Take some time to enjoy the breathtaking views and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
Visit the Saxman Native Village: A must-see attraction, the Saxman Native Village features traditional Native American totem poles and a cultural center. It’s a fantastic way to learn about the local heritage and history.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Ketchikan is famous for its seafood, particularly Dungeness crab. Be sure to try some of the local specialties during your visit for an authentic Alaskan culinary experience.
Check Out the Town’s Shops and Galleries: Ketchikan has a variety of unique shops and galleries, featuring local artwork and handicrafts. It’s a great place to pick up a souvenir or two.
Take a Tour: There are many tour options available in Ketchikan, including the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, wildlife cruises, and hiking excursions. Explore tour options to find the perfect adventure for you.
Bring Layers: The weather in Ketchikan can be unpredictable, so be sure to bring layers and waterproof gear. This will ensure you’re comfortable no matter what the weather brings.
Have Fun: Ketchikan is a fun and lively town with plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy. Be sure to leave some time to explore and soak in the town’s atmosphere.

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Ketchikan, enjoying all the highlights this charming Alaskan town has to offer.

The Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show

If you are looking for a fun activity that the entire family would love, then you’ll want to book the Alaskan Lumberjack Show. It will make you laugh, it will have you on the edge of your seat and it will make you want to get up and try all the activities yourself.

We booked it originally because we had a child with us and there weren’t many excursions she was old enough for. But we ended up loving the show and really glad we had the opportunity to see it. There’s a reason it’s the most popular thing to do in Ketchikan on a cruise port day!

Seriously dont miss this show!